Maryland SNAP Application 2025: How to Apply for SNAP Benefits

Access to dependable food assistance is more important than ever as costs rise. Maryland’s SNAP (called the Food Supplement Program) helps qualifying households purchase food.

Knowing how to apply for SNAP in Maryland correctly, with up-to-date rules and procedures, reduces delays and ensures you or your family don’t miss out.

This article walks you through eligibility, application methods, post-application steps, and tips to make the process smoother.

Key Takeaways

• Check gross income first: Use the USDA 130% FPL table (above) as an initial screen before applying. 
• Apply online for speed: MyDHR / Maryland Benefits lets you upload documents and track your case faster than mail. 
• Expedited help exists: If you face immediate food insecurity, request expedited processing (benefits within ~7 days). 
• ABAWD rules changed: Able-bodied adults without dependents must meet work/training hours or risk time limits—check local waivers. 
• Get local help: Maryland Hunger Solutions, legal aid, and local food banks can assist with applications and emergency food. 

Eligibility: Who Qualifies in Maryland

Eligibility for Maryland’s SNAP program depends on a few core factors: your household size, gross income, net income (after allowable deductions), and whether a household member is elderly or disabled. 

Some households with seniors or people with disabilities are subject only to net income tests rather than both gross and net. (Maryland DHS Income Requirements)

Residency and citizenship/immigration status also matter: you must be a Maryland resident and meet federal and state legal presence rules. 

Maryland DHS publishes current income and resource guidelines and a prescreening tool to help you estimate qualification before applying.

How to Apply For SNAP in Maryland

• Online (fastest): Use Maryland Benefits / myDHR to apply, upload verifications, and track your case status.
• In person at local DSS office: Pick up or turn in a paper application; staff may assist you on site.
• By mail, fax, or phone: Complete a paper form and send it, or call your local DSS to begin the process.
• Through community assistance: Organizations like Maryland Hunger Solutions or legal aid can help you fill out and submit the application.

Maryland law requires that your signed application be accepted the same day you submit it, whether online or in person. (People’s Law Maryland SNAP)

What Happens After You Apply

Once your application is filed, Maryland DSS (Department of Social Services) will ask you to attend an interview (usually by phone) and submit verification documents — proof of identity, residence, income, and allowable expenses (rent, utilities, medical) are common. The state must reach a decision within 30 days in most cases. 

For households meeting emergency criteria, you can receive expedited SNAP benefits within 7 days. 

If approved, you are issued an Independence Card (EBT) with monthly benefit load; if denied, you receive a written decision that includes appeal rights.

Required Documents 

Gather documents such as a state or federal ID, Social Security numbers (or proof of application), proof of Maryland residence (e.g., utility bills, lease), recent pay stubs or benefit award letters, bank statements, and receipts for rent, utilities, or medical expenses if claiming deductions. 

For those subject to ABAWD rules, keep records of work hours, job training or volunteer activity. Submitting clear, complete, and legible documents up front helps avoid delays and requests for follow-up.

Gross Income Standards (FY 2025 / FY 2026)

Maryland uses an expanded eligibility limit of 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) for most households. These figures are for the period of October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026.

Maryland SNAP Gross Monthly Income Limits (200% FPL)

Note: If a household has a member who is 60 or older or has a disability and their income is above these limits, they can still qualify by meeting the Net Income and Asset tests.

Also, unlike in many states, Maryland generally has no asset limit for most households. However, if your household has an elderly or disabled member and fails the gross income test, there is a modest asset limit (about $4,250). 

ABAWD Rules, Waivers, and Work Requirements

“ABAWD” (Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents) rules now apply to Maryland SNAP recipients between ages 18 and 64 who are not exempt. Beginning November 1, 2025, non-exempt individuals must meet 80 hours per month of work, volunteering, or approved training to maintain eligibility beyond 3 months in a 36-month timeframe. 

Maryland has secured a partial waiver for certain areas through June 30, 2025, shielding some from losing benefits immediately. But in areas not under waiver, the ABAWD time limit is enforced. 

Under general SNAP rules, participants between ages 16–59 also must meet broader work requirements: they must register for work, accept suitable employment if offered, and not quit a job or reduce hours without good cause. These rules can change as federal legislation evolves. 

EBT / Independence Card & What SNAP Covers

If your application is approved, Maryland loads monthly SNAP benefits onto an Independence Card (EBT). You can use it at authorized supermarkets, retailer chains, participating farmers markets, and in states accepting SNAP online purchasing. SNAP covers eligible groceries only—fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat, breads, and cereals—but not hot prepared foods, alcoholic beverages, tobacco, or nonfood items. Delivery and service fees typically must be paid separately and cannot be charged to your EBT.

Tips to Avoid Delay and Increase Success

Apply online when possible, submit clear scans or photos of your documents, respond quickly to any DSS requests, and refuse to leave deadlines unanswered. If you face immediate food need while your application is pending, request expedited processing. Keep copies of everything submitted, track your case number, and monitor messages from DSS. If denied, act promptly to appeal with additional supporting documents. Seeking help from community advocates or legal aid can also help you navigate the process.

FAQs

Conclusion

Applying for SNAP in Maryland doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding the eligibility rules, checking the income table, and preparing the right documents in advance, you can make the process faster and more efficient. Maryland offers multiple ways to apply — online, in person, by mail, or with community assistance — so you can choose the option that works best for your situation.

Remember, SNAP is designed to support individuals and families facing food insecurity, and programs like expedited benefits ensure that urgent needs are met quickly. Staying informed about updates, such as ABAWD work rules and recertification timelines, helps prevent interruptions in your benefits. Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing, approaching the process with accurate information and preparedness makes all the difference.